Method and system for transporting, loading, and unloading various types of goods

ABSTRACT

A method and system for transporting, loading, and unloading various types of goods can include a motor vehicle having a tractor portion and a rectilinear shaped cargo area portion. The cargo area portion can include three traditional sides and a curtain side. The various parts of the system can include, but are not limited to, the following: a front, first width, solid side of the rectilinear shaped cargo area that is adjacent to a tractor portion. The system can further include a solid side along a first length of the rectilinear shaped cargo area. A first door can be contained with the solid side along the first length. Adjacent to the first door, a side-mount liftgate can be positioned. A rear, second width, solid side of the rectilinear shaped cargo area can contain a second door. The second door can be a rolling type door.

STATEMENT REGARDING RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §120 to U.S.Non-provisional patent application entitled, “METHOD AND SYSTEM FORTRANSPORTING, LOADING, AND UNLOADING VARIOUS TYPES OF GOODS,” filed onAug. 27, 2009 and assigned U.S. application Ser. No. 12/549,317, theentire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference.

FIELD OF INVENTION

The invention relates to the shipping of movable goods. Moreparticularly, the invention relates to cargo areas of vehicles, such asmotor vehicles, for shipping movable goods.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Traditionally, a vendor of a wide variety of consumer goods must employat least two different motor vehicles for transporting the wide varietyof consumer goods. For example, to transport movable goods which needprotection from environmental elements, such as weather and dirt, atruck with a fully enclosed cargo area to protect the consumer goodsmust be used. Such consumer goods which need protection fromenvironmental elements can include, but are not limited to, applianceslike washers, dryers, refrigerators, etc. To load and unload these typeof consumer goods, the truck with the fully enclosed cargo areatypically has a rear mounted liftgate which can raise and lower thegoods relative to the cargo area.

Meanwhile, goods which usually do not need protection from environmentalelements can include, but are not limited to, cement, bricks, andlumber. To transport these type of goods which do not need protectionfrom environmental elements, a vendor typically uses a flat bed truckthat does not have any enclosed areas in the cargo area. Withoutenclosed areas of the cargo area, easy loading and unloading can beachieved with the assistance of cargo moving machines, such as aforklift.

With this wide variety of consumer goods, a vendor must use and employthese two different type of trucks as discussed above. Maintaining andoperating two different types of trucks can become expensive for theconsumer goods vendor. For example, two trucks will require two separatefuel tanks that must be filled.

Accordingly, there is a need in the art for a method and system fortransporting, loading, and unloading various types of goods that employsonly a single motor vehicle. A further need in the art exists for amethod and system which combines the positive attributes of motorvehicles with enclosed cargo areas with motor vehicles having flat bedopen cargo areas.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A method and system for transporting, loading, and unloading varioustypes of goods can include a motor vehicle having a tractor portion anda rectilinear shaped cargo area portion. The cargo area portion caninclude three traditional sides and a curtain side.

The various parts of the system can include, but are not limited to, thefollowing: a front, first width, solid side of the rectilinear shapedcargo area that is adjacent to a tractor portion. The system can furtherinclude a solid side along a first length of the rectilinear shapedcargo area. A first door can be contained with the solid side along thefirst length. Adjacent to the first door, a side-mount liftgate can bepositioned. The side-mount liftgate can comprise a hydraulic system thatcan lift heavy loads to and from a ground level to and from a levelparallel with a planar surface defined by a floor portion of the cargoarea of the motor vehicle. A rear, second width, solid side of therectilinear shaped cargo area can contain a second door. The second doorcan be a rolling type door that has panels which are rolled along acurved track.

A forklift can be attached to a rear portion of the cargo area adjacentto the second width, solid side and adjacent to the curtain side of thecargo area. The curtain side can be positioned along a second length ofthe rectilinear shaped cargo area. The curtain side can be made from aflexible, sheet-like material that can be easily contracted and expandedalong the second length of the rectilinear shaped cargo area. Theflexible, sheet-like material can include, but is not limited to, aflexible canvas or any other suitable industrial fabric. The flexiblesheet-like material can be slidably and fixedly attached near a roofportion of the cargo area. A lower portion of the curtain can befastened to a bed or flat portion of the cargo area with mechanicalfasteners. Any of a variety of mechanical fasteners can be used withoutdeparting from the invention. For example, the mechanical fasteners usedto secure the flexible curtain side could comprise straps with locks,hooks, clips, or tie cords. Beneath the curtain side, a plurality ofcargo securing mechanisms can be positioned for attaching and securingcargo within the cargo area.

A removable center beam positioned in a central area of the curtain sidecan provide support for a central region of the roof for the rectilinearcargo area. The removable center beam can comprise a solid material,such as, but not limited to, metal.

The method and system are not limited to a rectilinear shaped cargo areaand can include other shapes, such as, square, oval, cylindrical, etc.The method and system allows goods which need protection from theenvironmental elements, such as the weather, to be stored in and removedfrom areas adjacent to the side door and side-mount liftgate. Thesegoods can include, but are not limited to, washers, dryers,refrigerators, etc. These goods can be removed from the cargo area usingthe side-mount liftgate.

The method and system allow goods which usually do not need protectionfrom environmental elements to be stored in areas away from the sidemount liftgate such as in the rear portion of the cargo area. However,these goods which do not need protection from environmental elements mayalso be positioned near the side mount liftgate as desired. These goodswhich usually do not need protection from environmental elements caninclude, but are not limited to, cement, bricks, and lumber. These goodscan be placed on skids and the skids can be picked up with the fork-liftand removed from the “curtain” side of the cargo area with thefork-lift.

According to one exemplary embodiment, there is no separation or wallsin the cargo area to divide the different types of goods from oneanother. For example, there is no solid wall along the center removablebeam that separates the two different sets of goods and that areopposite to each other relative to the center, removable beam. The cargoarea can comprise just one large, rectilinear sized volume.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a side view of a system including a motor vehicle with a sideof its cargo area comprising a door and a side mount liftgate in araised position according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 2 is a perspective, side view of the system including a motorvehicle illustrated in FIG. 1 with the side mount liftgate in a loweredposition according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 3 is a side view of the system including a motor vehicleillustrated in FIG. 1 with a side of the cargo area comprising aflexible curtain in a detached position according to one exemplaryembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 4 is a perspective, side view of the system including a motorvehicle illustrated in FIG. 1 with the flexible curtain in a attachedposition according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 5 is a rear, side view the cargo area illustrated in FIG. 1 withthe flexible curtain partially detached and further illustrating a cargomoving machine in a secured position according to one exemplaryembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 6 is a rear, perspective view of cargo area illustrated in FIG. 1with the flexible curtain partially detached and with the cargo movingmachine in a secured position according to one exemplary embodiment ofthe invention.

FIG. 7 is a full rear view of the cargo area illustrated in FIG. 1 withthe cargo moving machine in a secured position according to oneexemplary embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 8 is perspective, rear view of the cargo area illustrated in FIG. 1with the cargo moving machine removed from the motor vehicle and furtherillustrating a rear rolling door in an elevated position and theflexible curtain in a partially open position according to one exemplaryembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 9 is a perspective, side view of the cargo area illustrated in FIG.1 with the flexible curtain in an open position, the rear rolling doorin a closed position, and with a removable beam in a secured positionaccording to one exemplary embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 10 is a side view of the system including a motor vehicleillustrated in FIG. 1 in which the flexible curtain not illustrated andwith exemplary goods which may be transported in the cargo areaaccording to one exemplary embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 11 is a functional block diagram illustrating an elevational or topview of the system including a motor vehicle illustrated in FIG. 1according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 12 is a internal view of the cargo area of the system illustratedin FIG. 1 with the removable beam in a secured position and the flexiblecurtain in a fully extended and secured position according to oneexemplary embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 13 is an internal view of the cargo area of the system illustratedin FIG. 1 that illustrates a first end of the removable beam and how itis coupled to a roof of the cargo area according to one exemplaryembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 14 is an internal view of the cargo area of the system illustratedin FIG. 1 which also illustrates a second end of the removable beam andhow it is coupled to a floor of the cargo area according to oneexemplary embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 15 is a side view of the removable beam that illustrates a lockingmechanism for the beam in a locked position according to one exemplaryembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 16 is a side view of the removable beam that illustrates a lockingmechanism for the beam in an unlocked position according to oneexemplary embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 17 is a side view of the removable beam that illustrates a lockingmechanism for the beam in an unlocked position and with the removablebeam separated from the floor of the cargo area according to oneexemplary embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 18 is a side view of the removable beam that illustrates a lockingmechanism for the beam in an unlocked position with the removable beamseparated from the floor of the cargo area and positioned along itstrack adjacent to a front portion of the cargo area according to oneexemplary embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 19A is a perspective, side view of the system illustrated in FIG. 1with the flexible curtain in a secured, closed position and furtherillustrating the fastening mechanisms for the flexible curtain in moredetail according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 19B illustrates a cross sectional view of multiple beams containedor encapsulated by the curtain along a length of the curtain accordingto one exemplary embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 20 is a close up view of a fastening mechanism in a detachedposition for the flexible curtain according to one exemplary embodimentof the invention.

FIG. 21 is a close up view of an end of the fastening mechanism in asecured position for the flexible curtain according to one exemplaryembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 22 is a close up view of a fastening mechanism in a securedposition for the flexible curtain according to one exemplary embodimentof the invention.

FIG. 23 is a close up, top view of a mounting mechanism positioned on aside of the flexible curtain opposite to a fastening mechanism forattaching the fastening mechanism to the flexible curtain according toone exemplary embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 24 is a perspective, close up, view of the mounting mechanismillustrated in FIG. 23 according to one exemplary embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 25 is side view of a slider coupler which connects the flexiblecurtain to a roof of the cargo area according to one exemplaryembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 26 is a side view of the slider coupler of FIG. 25 with theflexible curtain in a retracted position according to one exemplaryembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 27 is a perspective, side view of the slider coupler of FIG. 26according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 28 is an internal view of the flexible curtain relative to thecargo area and which further illustrates rectangular shaped supportstraps along a surface of the flexible curtain according to oneexemplary embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 29 is a perspective, side view of the system illustrated in FIG. 1with the flexible curtain in a attached position and which furtherillustrates cargo securing mechanisms according to one exemplaryembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 30 is a perspective, bottom view of the system illustrated in FIG.1 with the flexible curtain in a attached position and which furtherillustrates cargo securing mechanisms and the fastening mechanisms in asecured position according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 31 is a close up view of a cargo securing device according to oneexemplary embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 32 is a side view of the cargo area with the flexible curtain in aretracted position and with a ladder to the cargo area in an extendedposition and the removable beam in a secured position according to oneexemplary embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 33 is a side view of the cargo area with the flexible curtain in aretracted position and the cargo moving machine lowering goods in thecargo area according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 34 is a side view of the cargo area with the flexible curtain in aretracted position and goods held in place with the cargo securingmechanisms according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 35 is a close up view of a cargo securing device illustrated inFIG. 34 having one end fastened to a solid side wall of the cargo areaaccording to one exemplary embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 36 is a rear view of the cargo area with the cargo moving machinebeing positioned for engaging a bottom portion of the cargo areaaccording to one exemplary embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 37 is a rear view of the cargo area with the cargo moving machineengaged with a bottom portion of the cargo area and with the cargomoving machine's wheels in contact with the ground according to oneexemplary embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 38 is a rear view of the cargo area with the cargo moving machineengaged with a bottom portion of the cargo area and elevated relative tothe ground according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 39 is a close up, rear view of the cargo area with the cargo movingmachine engaged with a bottom portion of the cargo area according to oneexemplary embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 40 is a close up view of a first end of a cargo moving machinecoupling mechanism according to one exemplary embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 41 is a close up view of a second end of a cargo moving machinecoupling mechanism according to one exemplary embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 42 is a rear view of the cargo area that illustrates the two endsof the cargo moving machine coupling mechanism of FIG. 41 and FIG. 42fully engaged according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 43 is a close up, rear view of the cargo area that illustrates thebottom portion that comprises a receptacle region for receiving aportion of the cargo moving machine according to one exemplaryembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 44 is a flowchart of a method according to one exemplary embodimentof the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

Referring now to the Figures, in which like reference numerals designatelike parts, FIG. 1 illustrates a side view of a system 100 thatcomprises a motor vehicle 117 with a side of its cargo area 105comprising a door 103 and a side mount liftgate 109 in a raised positionaccording to one exemplary embodiment of the invention. The motorvehicle 117 can comprise a truck having a tractor portion which mayenclose controls for steering the motor vehicle 117.

The tractor portion may also include a motor for pulling the cargo area105. The tractor portion of the motor vehicle 117 may also have door 118which allows access to the tractor portion containing the steeringcontrols of the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1. However, the inventionis not limited to motor vehicles 117 comprising trucks. The inventioncan include other types of motor vehicles 117, such as, but not limitedto, freight cars pulled by locomotives (trains), ships, planes, tractortrailers (i.e.—known in the U.S. as “eighteen wheelers”) and the like.

The invention also may exclude the motor vehicle 117 and may only bedefined by the cargo area 105. In such exemplary embodiments, the cargoarea 105 could be used for shipping containers that are typicallycarried by ships and/or tractor trailers for transporting movable goods.Further, in such embodiments, the cargo area 105 may be detachable fromthe motor vehicle without departing from the scope of the invention. Thecargo area 105 may generally comprise and define a rectilinear shapedvolume. However, the method and system are not limited to a rectilinearshaped cargo area 105 and can include other shapes, such as, square,oval, cylindrical, etc.

The motor vehicle 117 in the exemplary embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1may comprise a first set of wheels 123A used for steering the vehicle117 and a second set of wheels 123B, 123C that support the cargo area105. The motor vehicle 117 may also comprise a fuel container 120 whichcomprises the fuel needed to power the motor vehicle 117. In theexemplary embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, the fuel container 120 maycomprise diesel fuel to power the tractor portion of the motor vehicle117.

The cargo area 105 of the system 100 may further comprise a solid wall107 that is made from a plurality of interconnected panels 101A, 101B.The panels 101A, 101B may be made from metal, however, other materialsmay be used without departing from the invention. That is, the panels101A, 101B may be made from polymers, ceramics, glass, or naturalelements like wood. According to another illustrative embodiment,instead of interconnected panels 101A, 101B, the solid wall 107 could beconstructed from a single, planar sheet of material, like metal.

The door 103 contained within the solid wall 107 may comprise twomovable sections 103A, 103B. The first movable section 103A can comprisea first sub-door that can open and rotate relative to a first set ofhinges 125A. The second movable section 103B of the door 103 cancomprise a second sub-door that can open and rotate relative to a secondset of hinges 125B. The first sub-door 103A may be smaller in surfacearea relative to the second sub-door 103B. However, other sizes of thesub-doors 103A, 103B are included within the scope of the invention. Forexample, the sub-doors 103A, 103B may be equally sized or the firstsub-door 103A may be made larger relative to the second sub-door 103B.Alternatively, the door 103 can be made from a single panel of materialwhich moves on only one set of hinges 125 without departing from theinvention.

While the door 103 is illustrated with a rectangular shape, other shapesmay be used for the door 103 without departing from the inventivesystem. Other shapes include, but are not limited to, other polygonalshapes such as generally rectangular shapes with rounded edges, squareshapes, elliptical shapes, round shapes, and other like shapes.

The cargo area 105 may comprise a rear portion 115 and adjacent to therear portion 115 a cargo moving machine 112 may be secured. The cargomoving machine 112 may comprise a forklift, however, other cargo movingmachines 112 are within the scope of the invention. Other cargo movingmachines can include, but are not limited to, dollies, pallet jacks,reach trucks, stackers, hand carts, and other like cargo movingmachines. In the exemplary embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, the cargomoving machine 112 may comprise two front wheels 123D and a single rearwheel 123E.

Referring now to FIG. 2, this figure illustrates a perspective, sideview of the system 100 which includes the motor vehicle 117 illustratedin FIG. 1 with the side mount liftgate 109 in a lowered positionaccording to one exemplary embodiment of the invention. The side mountliftgate 109 can comprise a powering system 127 that has hydraulics forraising and lowering a platform 128 of the liftgate 109. The side mountliftgate 109 can comprise other types of powering systems 127 instead ofthe hydraulic type. For example, the powering system could comprise anelectric motor for driving chains/cables and/or pulleys. The side mountliftgate 109 may be referred to in the industry as a side loader type.Other types of liftgates 109 within the scope of the invention, include,but are not limited to, flipaway types, rail-types, slide away types,level lift types, conventional types, and other like liftgates.

In the exemplary embodiment illustrated in FIG. 2, the first sub-door103A is in an open position exposing a hand tool 130 that be supportedby hanging devices 133. The hand tool 130 depicted comprises a broom,but other hand tools besides brooms, may be stored on an internal sideof the sub-door 103B relative to the cargo area 105. FIG. 2 alsoprovides an internal view of a removable support beam 135 that ispositioned adjacent to a flexible curtain 305 of the cargo area 105.Further details of the removable support beam 135 and flexible curtain305 will be described below.

FIG. 3 is a side view of the system 100 including the motor vehicle 117illustrated in FIG. 1 with a side of the cargo area 105 comprising aflexible curtain 305 in a detached position according to one exemplaryembodiment of the invention. The flexible curtain 305 can comprise aflexible polyvinylchloride (PVC)-coated, woven polyester fabric. Suchcurtains 305 as of this writing are available from All Van Corporationof LaVergne, Tenn. However, the flexible curtain 305 can comprise otherindustrial fabrics besides PVC-coated, woven polyester fabric. Otherindustrial fabrics, include, but are not limited to, coated orun-coated, vinyl, polypropylene, canvas, mesh fabrics, and the like. Thecurtain 305 may be detachable from a floor portion 307 of the cargo area105.

The curtain 305 may be slidably as well as removably attached to a roofportion 309 of the cargo area. The curtain 305 is generally designed sothat it may slide along the roof portion 309 when it is detached fromthe floor portion 307 of the cargo area 105. In this way, the curtain305 allows full access to the cargo area 105 compared to the partialaccess that is provided by a rear door and the side door 103 on theopposing side of the cargo area 105.

Referring now to FIG. 4, this figure illustrates a perspective, sideview of system 100 comprising the motor vehicle 117 illustrated in FIG.1 with the flexible curtain 305 in a attached position according to oneexemplary embodiment of the invention. The curtain 305 is attached tothe floor portion 307 of the cargo area by fastening mechanisms 405. Thefastening mechanisms 405 can comprise positive latching quick releasestainless steel buckles in combination with nylon straps. These bucklesand straps as of this writing are available from All Van Corporation ofLaVergne, Tenn. However, other fastening mechanisms 405 may be usedwithout departing from the invention. For example other fasteningmechanisms 405 may include, but are not limited to, snaps, detachablerivets, hook and loop fasteners, bungee cords coupled to anchors, andother like fastening mechanisms.

In addition to the fastening mechanisms 405 illustrated in FIG. 4, aplurality of cargo securing mechanisms 407 are also illustrated. Thecargo securing mechanisms 407 are fixedly attached to the floor portion307 of the cargo area 105. The cargo securing mechanisms 407 can helphold any goods placed in the cargo area 105. These cargo securingmechanisms 407 can comprise straps supported by tie-down winches. Thestraps and winches as of this writing are available from U.S. CargoControl, Inc. of Urbana, Iowa. Further details of the cargo securingmechanisms 407 will be described below.

Referring now to FIG. 5, this figure illustrates a rear, side view ofthe cargo area 105 illustrated in FIG. 1 with the flexible curtain 305partially detached and further illustrating a cargo moving machine 112in a secured position according to one exemplary embodiment of theinvention. As noted previously above, the cargo moving machine 112 maycomprise a forklift, however, other cargo moving machines 112 are withinthe scope of the invention. Other cargo moving machines can include, butare not limited to, dollies, pallet jacks, reach trucks, stackers, handcarts, and other like cargo moving machines. The cargo moving machine112 may be secured to the rear portion of the cargo area 105 by a cargomoving machine coupling mechanism 3805. Further details of this coupler3805 will be described below.

Referring now to FIG. 6, this figure illustrates a rear, perspectiveview of the cargo area 105 illustrated in FIG. 1 with the flexiblecurtain 305 partially detached and with the cargo moving machine 112 ina secured position according to one exemplary embodiment of theinvention. The cargo moving machine 112 is held in its secured positionby coupler 3805. Coupler 3805 may comprise a chain with special endsaccording to an exemplary embodiment of the invention. Further detailsof the coupler 3805 will be illustrated and discussed in further detailbelow. Also illustrated is a rear rolling door 705 which will be furtherillustrated and described in detail below.

Referring now to FIG. 7, this figure is a full rear view of the cargoarea 105 illustrated in FIG. 1 with the cargo moving machine 112 in asecured position according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention.As shown in this figure, and FIG. 5 and FIG. 6, the cargo moving machine112 is designed such that its wheels 123D, 123E will not contact theground when the cargo moving machine 112 is in the secured position. Inthis way, the cargo moving machine 112 will only contribute to weight ofthe cargo area 105 without contributing to any excess frictional dragand/or losses in maneuverability of the cargo area 105. However, otherdesigns which may include a cargo moving machine 112 dragged behind thecargo area 105 in which the wheels 123D, 123E of the cargo movingmachine 112 contact the ground are within the scope of the invention.

Also illustrated in FIG. 7 is a door 705 in a closed or fully extendedposition. The door 705 may comprise one that is a rolling type thatrolls along tracks. However, other types of rear doors 705 are withinthe scope of the invention. Other types of rear doors 705 include, butare not limited to, doors with side-mounted hinges, doors with hingesnear a roof section 309 of the cargo area 105, and other like doors 705.

Referring now to FIG. 8, this figure is perspective, rear view of thecargo area 105 illustrated in FIG. 1 with the cargo moving machine 112removed from the motor vehicle 117 and further illustrating a rearrolling door 705 in an elevated position and the flexible curtain 305 ina partially open position according to one exemplary embodiment of theinvention. The cargo moving machine 112 can access the internal space orvolume defined by the cargo area 105 through either the space defined bythe elevated rolling door 705 or through the opening defined by thepartially opened curtain 305.

Referring now to FIG. 9, this figure is a perspective, side view of thecargo area 105 illustrated in FIG. 1 with the flexible curtain 305 in anopen position, the rear rolling door 705 in a closed position, and witha removable beam 135 in a secured position according to one exemplaryembodiment of the invention. Further details of the removable beam 135will be illustrated and described in further detail below. The rollingdoor 705 is supported by a track 905 that engages rollers or wheels ofthe door 705.

FIG. 9 further illustrates a roof 907 of the cargo area 105. The roof907 may comprise a planar, metal sheet. However, other materials for theroof 907 are not beyond the scope of the invention. Other materials forthe roof 907 include, but are not limited to, polymers, ceramics, glass,or natural elements like wood. The roof 907 may be supported by beams909. The beams 909, like the roof 907, may be made from metal, such asaluminum. However, the beams 909 may comprise other materials like theroof as noted above.

FIG. 9 also illustrates further details of the inside portion of theside wall 107 for the cargo area 105. The inside portion of the sidewall 107 may comprise a plurality of hanging devices 133, similar to theones placed on the door 103 illustrated in FIG. 2 above. These hangingdevices 133 can secure tools as well as cargo within the cargo area 105.

Further details of the floor portion 307 of the cargo area 105 areillustrated in FIG. 9. The floor portion 307 may be made from metal suchas steel. The floor portion 307 may be reinforced and further supportedby beams, similar to the beams 909 for the roof portion 907. The floorportion 307 of the cargo area 105 is generally thicker relative to theroof portion 907. Other materials for the floor 307 are not beyond thescope of the invention. Other materials for the floor 307 include, butare not limited to, polymers, ceramics, glass, or natural elements likewood.

Referring now to FIG. 10, this figure is a side view of the system 100comprising the motor vehicle 117 illustrated in FIG. 1 but with theflexible curtain 305 not illustrated and with exemplary goods 1005, 1010which may be transported in the cargo area 105 according to oneexemplary embodiment of the invention. The consumer goods 1010 that arepositioned nearest to the motor vehicle 117 usually need protection fromenvironmental elements. These goods 1010 can include, but are notlimited to, appliances like washers, dryers, refrigerators, etc. To loadand unload these type of consumer goods, the side mount liftgate 109adjacent to door 103 can be used.

The consumer goods 1005 that are positioned furthest from the motorvehicle 117 usually do not need protection from environmental elements.These consumer goods 1005 can include, but are not limited to, buildingmaterials, like cement, bricks, and lumber. While the first set ofconsumer goods 1010 have been positioned adjacent to the door 103 withthe side-mound liftgate 109, these goods 1010 can be positioned anywherein the cargo area 105 such as in the position of the second set of goods1005. The second set of goods can also be positioned anywhere in thecargo area 105.

Referring now to FIG. 11, this figure is a functional block diagramillustrating an elevational or top view of the system 100 that includesthe motor vehicle 117 illustrated in FIG. 1 according to one exemplaryembodiment of the invention. This figure illustrates the relativeposition of the system elements such as the roof 907; the rear rollingdoor 705; the cargo moving machine 112; the curtain side 305; a solidside 1105 adjacent to the motor vehicle 117; and the solid side 107containing the door 103. As noted above, cargo area 105 may generallycomprise and define a rectilinear shaped volume. However, the method andsystem are not limited to a rectilinear shaped cargo area 105 and caninclude other shapes, such as, square, oval, cylindrical, etc. Forexample, if the cargo area 105 has a generally cylindrical shape, thenone side of the cylinder could comprise a curtain side 305 and one ofthe two ends could comprise a door. Additional shapes and configurationsof the cargo area 105 are not beyond the scope of the invention.

FIG. 12 is an internal view of the cargo area of the system 100illustrated in FIG. 1 with the removable beam 135 in a secured positionand the flexible curtain 305 in a fully extended and secured positionaccording to one exemplary embodiment of the invention. The removablebeam 135 can be made from materials such as metal. But other materialsare within the scope of the invention. Other materials include, but arenot limited to, polymers, ceramics, glass, or natural elements likewood.

The removable beam 135 can provide additional support for the roof 907as well as the curtain 305. However, this additional support is not thatcritical and therefore, if the removable beam 135 restricts the loadingand/or unloading of oversized cargo, then it can be removed from itscentral position along the curtain 305. The removable beam 135 can befastened to a roof beam 1215 with a sliding hinge assembly 1205.However, other hardware for attaching the top portion of the removablebeam 135 to the roof beam 1215 can be used without departing from theinvention.

The removable beam 135 can be attached to the floor 307 of the cargoarea 105 by inserting the beam 135 in an aperture or hole 1210 withinthe floor 307. However, other hardware for fastening the beam 135 to thefloor 307 can be used without departing from the scope of invention.

FIG. 13 is an internal view of the cargo area 105 illustrated in FIG. 1and that further illustrates a first end of the removable beam and howit is coupled to the roof 907 of the cargo area with a hinge assembly1205 according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention. The hingeassembly 1205 can comprise hinges 1215 that are coupled to a track 1217Aso that the hinges 1215 can slide along the track 1215. The end of thebeam 135 coupled to the hinge 1215 comprises a pin 1220. As noted above,the system is not limited to this form of attachment to the roof 907.Other mechanical configurations for coupling the removable beam 135 tothe roof 907 are within the scope of the invention.

Referring now to FIG. 14, this figure is an internal view of the cargoarea 105 of the system 100 illustrated in FIG. 1 which also illustratesa second end of the removable beam 135 and how it is coupled to a floor307 of the cargo area 105 via an aperture 1210 according to oneexemplary embodiment of the invention. A portion of the removable beam135 may slide into the aperture 1210 to lock the beam 135 into position.This view further illustrates a handle 1405, a locking mechanism 1408,and a pivot pin 1411. Further details of the locking mechanism 1408 andpivot pin 1411 will be described below.

Referring now to FIG. 15, this figure is a side view of the removablebeam 135 that illustrates the locking mechanism 1408 for the beam 135 ina locked position according to one exemplary embodiment of theinvention. The locking mechanism 1408 can comprise a locking ring 1505with a slot 1507. The locking mechanism 1408 is designed to enclose andsurround an end of the pivotal portion 1413 of the removable beam 135 sothat the end cannot move relative to the beam 135 when the locking ring1505 of the locking mechanism 1408 is engaged with the pivotal portion1413. The slot 1507 of the locking ring 1505 is designed to engage a pin1510 when the locking mechanism 1408 is in an unlocked position. Furtherdetails and operation of the locking mechanism 1408 in conjunction withthe removable beam 135 are illustrated and described in further detailbelow.

Referring now to FIG. 16, this figure is a side view of the removablebeam 135 that illustrates the locking mechanism 1408 for the beam 135 inan unlocked position according to one exemplary embodiment of theinvention. In this view, the locking ring 1505 of the locking mechanism1408 is secured to a pin 1510. The pin 1510 can comprise a screw, butother pins, such as solid types welded to the beam 135 are not beyondthe invention. The pin 1510 slidably engages the slot 1507 of thelocking ring 1505 to hold the locking ring 1505 above the pivotableportion 1413 of the beam 135.

Referring now to FIG. 17, this figure is a side view of the removablebeam 135 that illustrates the locking mechanism 1408 for the beam 135 inan unlocked position and with the removable beam 135 separated from thefloor 307 of the cargo area 105 according to one exemplary embodiment ofthe invention. With the pin 1510 holding the slot 1507 of the lockingring 1505 so that the locking ring 1505 is separated from the pivotalportion 1413 of the beam 135, the pivotable portion 1413 can rotateabout the pivot pin 1411 so that an end of the pivotal portion 1413 canbe removed from the aperture 1210 in the floor 307.

Referring now to FIG. 18, this figure is a side view of the removablebeam 135 that illustrates the locking mechanism 1408 for the beam 135 inan unlocked position with the removable beam 135 separated from thefloor 307 of the cargo area 105 and positioned along its track 1217adjacent to a front portion 1105 of the cargo area 105 according to oneexemplary embodiment of the invention. With the pivotable portion 1413of the beam 135 disengaged from the aperture 1210 in the floor 307, thebeam 135 can slide along its track 1217 so that the beam 135 can bemoved out of the way of oversized cargo that can be loaded and unloadedfrom the cargo area 105.

FIG. 19A is a perspective, side view of the system illustrated in FIG. 1with the flexible curtain 305 in a secured, closed position and furtherillustrating the fastening mechanisms 405 for the flexible curtain 305in more detail according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention.The fastening mechanisms 405 can comprise stainless steel buckles 1905and nylon straps 1910. As noted above, these buckles 1905 and straps1910 as of this writing are available from All Van Corporation ofLaVergne, Tenn. However, other fastening mechanisms 405 may be usedwithout departing from the invention. For example other fasteningmechanisms 405 may include, but are not limited to, snaps, detachablerivets, hook and loop fasteners, bungee cords coupled to anchors, andother like fastening mechanisms. Also illustrated with dashed lines inFIG. 19A is a beam 1915 to indicate that it is hidden in this view.Further details of the beam 1915 will be described below in connectionwith FIG. 19B.

FIG. 19B illustrates a cross sectional view of multiple beams 1915contained or encapsulated by the curtain 305 along a length of thecurtain according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention. Eachbeam 1915 may comprise a rectangular prism. Each beam 1915 may be madefrom metal, but other materials are within the scope of the invention.Other materials for the beam 1915 include, but are not limited to,polymers, ceramics, glass, or natural elements like wood. Each beam 1915may have a length that is defined by the distance between two fasteningmechanism 405 as illustrated in FIG. 19A. FIG. 19B also illustrates across sectional view of a rectangular shaped reinforcement strap 2310positioned on an inside section of the curtain 305. Further details ofthis reinforcement strap 2310 will be described below.

Referring now to FIG. 20, this figure is a close up view of a fasteningmechanism 405 in a detached position for the flexible curtain 305according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention. In this view,the buckle 1905 is in an unlatched position while another end of thestrap 1910 which comprises a hook 2005 is not engaged with a floorportion 307 of the cargo area 105.

Referring now to FIG. 21, this figure is a close up view of an end ofthe fastening mechanism 405 in a secured position for the flexiblecurtain 305 according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention. Thisview illustrates the hook 2005 of the fastening mechanism 405 engagedwith a portion of the floor 307 so that the curtain 305 is held in asecured position.

Referring now to FIG. 22, this figure is a close up view of a fasteningmechanism 405 in a secured position for the flexible curtain 305according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention. This viewillustrates the buckles 1905 and hooks 2005 in a secured or lockedposition so that the curtain 305 is secured to the floor portion 307 ofthe cargo area 105.

Referring now to FIG. 23, this figure is a close up, top view of amounting mechanism 2305 positioned on a side of the flexible curtain 305opposite to a fastening mechanism 405 for attaching the fasteningmechanism 405 to the flexible curtain 305 according to one exemplaryembodiment of the invention. The mounting mechanism 2305 can comprise ablock of material, such as plastic, which may receive couplingmechanisms, like rivets or screws, that secure the buckles 1905 to thecurtain 305. The mounting mechanism 2305 can comprise other materials,such as metal, without departing from the invention.

The mounting mechanisms 2305 can be placed at an intersection betweentwo rectangular support straps 2310A, 2310B which reinforce the curtain305. Several rectangular reinforcement straps 2310A, 2310B can bepositioned along the length and width of the curtain 305 in order toform various rectangular shaped panels as illustrated in FIG. 28described below.

Referring now to FIG. 24, this figure is a perspective, close up, viewof the mounting mechanism 2305 illustrated in FIG. 23 according to oneexemplary embodiment of the invention. The mounting mechanism 2305 maycomprise a thickness that is greater than the length of the couplingmechanisms, such as rivets, that may be used to couple the buckles 1905to the curtain 305. In this way, the coupling mechanisms for the buckles1905 are not exposed and may maintain a tight engagement of the mountingmechanism 2305 against the curtain 305.

Referring now to FIG. 25, this figure is side view of a slider coupler2505 which connects the flexible curtain 305 to a roof 907 of the cargoarea 105 according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention. Theslider coupler 2505 can comprise a roller 2507 contained by a secondtrack 1217B adjacent to the first track 1217A. The first track 1217Acontains the hinge 1215 for the removable beam 135 as noted above. Theroller 2507 can be made from nylon, however, other materials are notbeyond the scope of the invention. The roller 2507 can also comprise aball-bearing type roller. A ring 2509 can be coupled to a central regionof the roller 2507. The ring 2509 can be made from metal, but othermaterials could be used. The ring 2509 supports a strap 2511 that isalso coupled to the curtain 305. The strap 2511 is coupled to thecurtain 305 with a fastener 2513, which can comprise a bolt. Otherfasteners, like screws or rivets, could be used without departing fromthe invention.

The slider coupler 2505 and its related subcomponents describe above asof this writing are available from All Van Corporation of LaVergne,Tenn. However, other slider couplers 2505 may be used without departingfrom the invention.

Referring now to FIG. 26, this figure is a side view of the slidercoupler 2505 of FIG. 25 with the flexible curtain 305 in a retractedposition according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention. Thisview illustrates the slider coupler 2505 in more detail. Specifically,another end of the fastener 2513 is illustrated and the two separatetracks 1217A, 1217B are more clearly defined in which the first track1217A may contain the hinge 1215 of the movable beam 135 and in whichthe second track 1217B may contain the roller 2507 of the slider coupler2505 for the curtain 305.

Referring now to FIG. 27, this figure is a perspective, side view of theslider coupler 2505 of FIG. 26 according to one exemplary embodiment ofthe invention. This view further illustrates the strap 2511/curtain 305interface in which the fastener 2513 secures the strap 2511 to thecurtain 305.

Referring now to FIG. 28, this figure is an internal view of theflexible curtain 305 relative to the cargo area 105 and which furtherillustrates rectangular shaped support straps 2310 along a surface ofthe flexible curtain 305 according to one exemplary embodiment of theinvention. As noted previously, the curtain 305 as of this writing isavailable from All Van Corporation of LaVergne, Tenn. The criss-crossingreinforcement straps 2310 intersect with one another to definerectangular shaped panels 2805. The invention is not limited to thenumber and placement of the straps shown. Additional or fewer straps2310 than the number illustrated could be employed without departingfrom the scope of the invention.

Referring now to FIG. 29, this figure is a perspective, side view of thesystem illustrated in FIG. 1 with the flexible curtain 305 in a attachedposition and which further illustrates cargo securing mechanisms 407according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention. The cargosecuring mechanisms 407 can comprise a nylon strap 2905 that can bewrapped upon itself into a cylindrical shape. Further details of thecargo securing mechanisms 407 are illustrated and described in furtherdetail below.

Referring now to FIG. 30, this figure is a perspective, bottom view ofthe system 100 illustrated in FIG. 1 with the flexible curtain 305 in aattached position and which further illustrates cargo securingmechanisms 407 and the fastening mechanisms 405 in a secured positionaccording to one exemplary embodiment of the invention. These cargosecuring mechanisms 407 can comprise straps 2805 supported by tie-downwinches 3005. The straps 2805 and winches 3005 as of this writing areavailable from U.S. Cargo Control, Inc. of Urbana, Iowa.

Referring now to FIG. 31, this figure is a close up view of a cargosecuring mechanism 407 according to one exemplary embodiment of theinvention. This view illustrates a side opposite to the side of thewinch 3005 illustrated in FIG. 30. The mechanism 407 has a receptacle3105 for receiving a winch turning device, such as a solid, metal rod.

Referring now to FIG. 32, this figure is a side view of the cargo area105 with the flexible curtain 305 in a retracted position and with aladder 3205 to the cargo area 105 in an extended position and theremovable beam 135 in a secured position according to one exemplaryembodiment of the invention. FIG. 33 is a side view of the cargo area105 with the flexible curtain 305 in a retracted position and the cargomoving machine 112 lowering goods 1005 in the cargo 105 area accordingto one exemplary embodiment of the invention. These goods 1005 cancomprise the type that do not need protection from environmentalelements, like the weather.

Referring now to FIG. 34, this figure is a side view of the cargo area105 with the flexible curtain 305 in a retracted position and the goods1005 held in place with the cargo securing mechanisms 407 according toone exemplary embodiment of the invention. FIG. 35 is a close up view ofa cargo securing mechanism 407 illustrated in FIG. 34 having one end3505 fastened to a solid side wall 107 of the cargo area 105 accordingto one exemplary embodiment of the invention. The one end 3505 fastenedto the solid side wall 107 may comprise a flat hook. But other ends 3505are possible without departing from the scope of the invention. Otherends can include, but are not limited to, round hooks, S-shape hooks,clips, and the like.

FIG. 36 is a rear view of the cargo area 105 with the cargo movingmachine 112 being positioned for engaging a bottom portion 3605 of thecargo area 105 according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention.In this exemplary embodiment, the cargo moving machine 112 comprises aforklift having a loading mechanism 3610. The loading mechanism 3610 inthis exemplary embodiment comprises a fork. The loading mechanism 3610is designed for lifting pallets and can also engage a bottom portion3605 of the cargo area 105. As noted above, the invention is not limitedto cargo moving machines 112 comprising forklifts. Other cargo movingmachines 112 can include, but are not limited to, dollies, pallet jacks,reach trucks, stackers, hand carts, and other like cargo movingmachines. The bottom portion 3605 of the cargo area 105 can be designedto receive a particular cargo moving machine 112. In other words, thegeometry and structure of the bottom portion 3605 can be tailored forthe specific type loading mechanism 3610 of a cargo moving machine 112so that the machine 112 can be fastened to the rear portion of the cargoarea 105.

Referring now to FIG. 37, this figure is a rear view of the cargo area105 with the cargo moving machine 112 engaged with a bottom portion 3605of the cargo area 105 and with the cargo moving machine's wheels 123D,123E in contact with the ground according to one exemplary embodiment ofthe invention. This view illustrates how the bottom portion 3605 can bedesigned to receive the loading mechanism of a particular cargo movingmachine 112 so that it may be secured to the cargo area 105.

Referring now to FIG. 38, this figure is a rear view of the cargo area105 with the cargo moving machine 112 engaged with a bottom portion 3605of the cargo area 105 and elevated relative to the ground according toone exemplary embodiment of the invention. In this figure, the cargomoving machine 112 activates its loading mechanism 3610 comprising afork in order to lower the loading mechanism 3610. Because the mass ofthe cargo area 105 is significantly greater than the mass of the cargomoving machine 112, the lowering motion of the loading mechanism 3610 ofthe cargo moving machine 112 causes the power system of the loadingmechanism 3610 to elevate the cargo moving machine 112 above the ground.FIG. 38 also illustrates a coupling mechanism 3805 for the cargo movingmachine in a retracted position.

Referring now to FIG. 39, this figure is a close up, rear view of thecargo area 105 with the cargo moving machine 112 engaged with a bottomportion 3605 of the cargo area 105 according to one exemplary embodimentof the invention. Specifically, this view illustrates how the loadingmechanism 3610 engages with the bottom portion 3605 of the cargo area.

Referring now to FIG. 40, this figure is a close up view of a first end4005 of a cargo moving machine coupling mechanism 3805 according to oneexemplary embodiment of the invention. In this exemplary embodiment, thecargo machine coupling mechanism 3805 can comprise a chain. The firstend 4005 can comprise a cotter-pin assembly. However, other couplingmechanisms 3805 and ends 4005 are not beyond the scope of the invention.Other coupling mechanisms 3805 and ends 4005 can include, but are notlimited to, cables, solid beams, solid plates, bolts, hooks, S-shapedhooks, flat hooks, rings, ropes, and other like coupling mechanisms andends.

Referring now to FIG. 41, this figure is a close up view of a second end4105 of a cargo moving machine coupling mechanism 3805 according to oneexemplary embodiment of the invention. The second end 4105 can comprisea bolt 4110 and movable plate assembly 4115. The bolt 4110 can berigidly attached to the cargo moving machine 112 while the plateassembly 4115 can rotate around the bolt. In this way, when the firstend 4105 is not engaged with the cargo area 105, the coupling mechanism3805 can be retracted and positioned so that it does not interfere withoperation of the cargo moving machine 112 as illustrated in FIG. 38discussed above. As noted previously, other ends for the couplingmechanism 3805 are within the scope of the invention.

Referring now to FIG. 42, this figure is a rear view of the cargo area105 that illustrates the two ends 4005, 4105 of the cargo moving machinecoupling mechanism 3805 of FIG. 41 and FIG. 42 fully engaged accordingto one exemplary embodiment of the invention. In this view, the couplingmechanism 3805 is in a fully extended position to rigidly secure thecargo moving machine 112 to the cargo area 105.

Referring now to FIG. 43, this figure is a close up, rear view of thecargo area 105 that illustrates the bottom portion 3605 that comprises areceptacle region 4305 for receiving a portion of the cargo movingmachine 112 according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention. Thereceptacle region 4305 can receive the loading mechanism 3610 of thecargo moving machine 112. As noted previously, the geometry andstructure of the bottom portion 3605 and its receptacle region 4305 maybe tailored according to the type of cargo loading machine 112 used forthe cargo area 105.

Referring now to FIG. 44, this figure is a logic flow diagramhighlighting various steps of a method 4400 for transporting, loading,and unloading movable goods according to one exemplary embodiment of theinvention. Certain steps in the processes or process flow described inthis specification must naturally precede others for the invention tofunction as described. However, the invention is not limited to theorder of the steps described if such order or sequence does not alterthe functionality of the invention. That is, it is recognized that somesteps may performed before, after, or parallel other steps withoutdeparting from the scope and spirit of the invention. In some instances,certain steps can be deleted or not performed without departing from theinvention.

Step 4401 is the first step of the process or method 4400 in which arectilinear shaped cargo area 105 is formed with three solid sides 107,705, and 1105, a solid roof 907 and floor 307, and a flexible curtainside 305. As noted above, the invention is not limited to rectilinearshapes and can include other polygonal shapes.

Next, in step 4403, a door 103 is formed in a solid side 107 of thecargo area 105 and a liftgate 109 is positioned adjacent to the door 103as illustrated in FIG. 1. The door 103 can have various geometricalshapes as noted above. The side mount liftgate 109 can comprise apowering system 127 that has hydraulics for raising and lowering aplatform 128 of the liftgate 109. The side mount liftgate 109 cancomprise other types of powering systems instead of the hydraulic type.For example, the powering system could comprise an electric motor fordriving chains/cables and/or pulleys. The side mount liftgate 109 may bereferred to in the industry as a side loader type. Other types ofliftgates 109 within the scope of the invention, include, but are notlimited to, flipaway types, rail-types, slide away types, level lifttypes, conventional types, and other like liftgates.

Subsequently, in step 4406, a rolling door 705 can be formed in a solidrear side of the cargo area 105 as illustrated in FIG. 6. The inventionis not limited to rolling doors 705 and can comprise other types ofdoors such as a hinged door.

In step 4409, a flexible curtain 305 can be fastened to the solid roof907 so that it may slide along an axis defined by the roof 907 asillustrated in FIGS. 8-9. Slidable couplers 2505 such as thoseillustrated in FIGS. 25-27 may be used. However, slidable couplers,other than those illustrated, are within the scope of the invention.

In step 4410, coupling mechanisms 3805, 4005, 4105 are provided for acargo moving machine 112. The coupling mechanisms 3805, 4005, 4105 caninclude, but are not limited to chains, cotter-pins, and bolts. Thecargo moving machine 112 may comprise a forklift, however, other cargomoving machines 112 are within the scope of the invention. Other cargomoving machines 112 can include, but are not limited to, dollies, palletjacks, reach trucks, stackers, hand carts, and other like cargo movingmachines.

Next, in step 4412, the cargo moving machine 112 is secured adjacent toa solid rear side of the cargo area 105 using the coupling mechanisms3805, 4005, 4105 described above. In step 4415, an adjustable beam 135is formed and positioned adjacent to the flexible curtain side 305 ofthe cargo area 105.

Subsequently, in step 4418, the cargo securing mechanisms 407 of FIG. 4are attached to a floor portion 307 of the cargo area 105 and adjacentto the flexible curtain side 305. In step 4421, the liftgate 109 may beactivated to raise or lower goods relative to the door 103 in the solidside 107 of the cargo area 105.

In step 4424, the cargo moving machine 112 can be removed from the rear115 of the cargo area 105. Next, in step 4427, the cargo moving machine112 can be operated to raise or lower goods relative to the flexiblecurtain side 305 of the cargo area 105. In step 4430, the adjustablecenter beam 135 can be removed or secured relative to the flexiblecurtain side 305 of the cargo area 105.

In step 4433, the goods can be removed/secured by operating the cargosecuring mechanisms 407. For example, the winch 3005 of the cargosecuring mechanism 407 can be rotated.

In step 4436, the rear door 705 can be raised or lowered to access goodsnear the rear section 115 of the cargo area 105. The cargo movingmachine 112, in step 4439, can then be secured adjacent the solid, rearside 705 of the cargo area 105.

In step 4442, the cargo area 105 can be coupled to a motor vehicle ortransport vehicle 117. It is noted that this 4442 step may be practicedearlier in the process or method 4400 such as after step 4401, when thecargo 105 area is formed. Subsequently, in step 4445, the transportvehicle or motor vehicle 117 is driven to a desired destination. Asnoted above, the motor vehicle 117 may comprise a truck. The inventioncan include other types of motor vehicles 117, such as, but not limitedto, freight cars pulled by locomotives (trains), ships, planes, tractortrailers (i.e.—known in the U.S. as “eighteen wheelers”) and the like.The process 4400 then ends.

While various orientations of the system 100 have been referenced, suchas top, bottom, front, and back, one of ordinary skill in the artrecognizes that the invention is not limited to these described,exemplary orientations. While the force of gravity may dictateorientation of certain elements of the system 100, reversing the orderof system elements relative to their described orientations are designswhich are included within the scope of the invention.

Further, alternative embodiments for transport system 100 will becomeapparent to one of ordinary skill in the art to which the inventionpertains without departing from its spirit and scope. Thus, althoughthis invention has been described in exemplary form with a certaindegree of particularity, it should be understood that the presentdisclosure is made only by way of example and that numerous changes inthe details of construction and the combination and arrangement of partsor steps may be resorted to without departing from the scope or spiritof the invention.

What is claimed is:
 1. A system for transporting goods comprising: amotor vehicle; a cargo area defined by four walls; a first wallcomprising a substantially solid material and a door; a second wallcomprising a flexible curtain, wherein the second wall further comprisesa plurality of exterior fastening mechanisms relative to the cargo areafor securing the flexible curtain to a floor portion of the cargo area,each exterior fastening mechanism comprising a strap, hook and bucklepositioned only on an exterior of the flexible curtain relative to thecargo area and at a bottom portion of the flexible curtain such thateach exterior fastening mechanism only extends a distance that is lessthan one-half a height of the flexible curtain and only on the exteriorof the flexible curtain when in a tensioned state, wherein each strappasses through a respective buckle, and each respective buckle appliestension to a respective strap for pulling each hook to secure theflexible curtain to the floor portion of the cargo area duringtransport, wherein the second wall further comprises a slidable couplerfor slidably coupling the curtain to a roof portion of the cargo area,the slidable coupler comprising a roller; and a removable cylindricallyshaped beam coupled to the roof portion of the cargo area and positionedadjacent to the second wall, the removable cylindrically shaped beambeing collapsible around a hinge positioned within a portion of theremovable cylindrically shaped beam, the removable cylindrically shapedbeam being slideably engaged with the roof portion such that theremovable cylindrically shaped beam may be moved and positioned at anypoint along the second wall.
 2. The system of claim 1, furthercomprising a cargo moving machine coupled to the cargo area and adjacentto a third wall of the four walls.
 3. The system of claim 2, wherein thecargo moving machine is removably attached to the cargo area.
 4. Thesystem of claim 3, wherein the cargo moving machine comprises aforklift.
 5. The system of claim 1, wherein the removable cylindricallyshaped beam is slideably engaged with the roof portion by a hinge andtrack system.
 6. The system of claim 1, further comprising a side-mountliftgate coupled adjacent to the door.
 7. The system of claim 1, furthercomprising a third wall that has a rolling door.
 8. The system of claim1, wherein the motor vehicle comprises a truck.
 9. A method fortransporting and loading movable goods comprising: forming a cargo areawith three solid sides, a solid roof, a solid floor, and a flexiblecurtain side, wherein the flexible curtain side further comprises aplurality of exterior fastening mechanisms relative to the cargo areafor securing the flexible curtain side to a floor portion of the cargoarea, each exterior fastening mechanism comprising a strap, hook andbuckle positioned only on an exterior of the flexible curtain relativeto the cargo area and at a bottom portion of the flexible curtain suchthat each exterior fastening mechanism only extends a distance that isless than one-half a height of the flexible curtain and only on theexterior of the flexible curtain when in a tensioned state, wherein eachstrap passes through a respective buckle, and each respective buckleapplies tension to a respective strap for pulling each hook to securethe flexible curtain to the floor portion of the cargo area duringtransport, wherein the second wall further comprises a slidable couplerfor slidably coupling the curtain to a roof portion of the cargo area,the slidable coupler comprising a roller; and coupling a removablecylindrically shaped beam to the roof portion of the cargo area andpositioning it adjacent to the flexible curtain side, the removable beambeing collapsible around a hinge positioned within a portion of theremovable cylindrically shaped beam, the removable cylindrically shapedbeam being slideably engaged with the roof portion such that theremovable cylindrically shaped beam may be moved and positioned at anypoint along the second wall.
 10. The method of claim 9, furthercomprising coupling a cargo moving machine to the cargo area.
 11. Themethod of claim 9, further comprising slideably engaging the removablecylindrically shaped beam with the roof portion by a hinge and tracksystem.
 12. The method of claim 9, further comprising forming a door inone of the solid sides.
 13. The method of claim 12, further comprisingproviding a liftgate adjacent to the door.
 14. The method of claim 12,wherein the door is a first door, the method further comprising forminga second door in another one of the solid sides of the cargo area. 15.The method of claim 9, further comprising coupling a motor vehicle tothe cargo area.
 16. A system for transporting and loading movable goodscomprising: means for forming a cargo area with three solid sides, asolid roof, a solid floor, and a flexible curtain side, wherein theflexible curtain side further comprises a plurality of exteriorfastening mechanisms relative to the cargo area for securing theflexible curtain side to a floor portion of the cargo area, eachexterior fastening mechanism comprising a strap, hook and bucklepositioned only on an exterior of the flexible curtain relative to thecargo area and at a bottom portion of the flexible curtain such thateach exterior fastening mechanism only extends a distance that is lessthan one-half a height of the flexible curtain and only on the exteriorof the flexible curtain when in a tensioned state, wherein each strappasses through a respective buckle, and each respective buckle appliestension to a respective strap for pulling each hook to secure theflexible curtain to the floor portion of the cargo area duringtransport, wherein the second wall further comprises a slidable couplerfor slidably coupling the curtain to a roof portion of the cargo area,the slidable coupler comprising a roller; and means for coupling aremovable cylindrically shaped beam to the roof portion of the cargoarea and positioning it adjacent to the flexible curtain side, theremovable cylindrically shaped beam being collapsible around a hingepositioned within a portion of the removable cylindrically shaped beam,the removable cylindrically shaped beam being slideably engaged with theroof portion such that the removable cylindrically shaped beam may bemoved and positioned at any point along the second wall.
 17. The systemof claim 16, further comprising means for coupling a cargo movingmachine to the cargo area.
 18. The system of claim 16, furthercomprising means for slideably engaging the removable cylindricallyshaped beam with the roof portion, the means for slideably engaging themoveable cylindrically shaped beam comprising a hinge and track system.19. The system of claim 16, further comprising means for forming a doorin one of the solid sides.